Estudo tomográfico da desmineralização óssea em gatos com tireotoxicose induzida

Abstract

Hyperthyroidism is an endocrinopathy of high incidence in cats characterized by an elevation of the serum levels of the thyroid hormones, promoting a hypermetabolic state. Thyrotoxicosis, whether of endogenous or exogenous origin, is a condition that can alter bone mineral metabolism in humans and animals, and has the ability to trigger bone demineralization in affected patients. Quantitative computed tomography (QCT) is a technique of high sensitivity, applicability and precision, used to diagnose loss of bone mass, which allows evaluating isolated regions of cortical and trabecular bone. Although domestic cats have a high incidence of this condition, there are no studies to prove the existence of bone demineralization due to thyrotoxicosis. This study aimed to evaluate the occurrence of bone demineralization in seven cats with hyperthyroidism of exogenous origin receiving daily doses of levothyroxine sodium (125 μg/kg) orally for 60 days. In association with increased serum levels of thyroid hormones, significant demineralization of trabecular bone from the vertebral body of the second lumbar vertebra (L2) through QCT could be identified, similar to that described in thyrotoxicosis of endogenous origin. It is concluded that exogenous thyrotoxicosis for a period of two months can cause significant changes in bone metabolism in cats. Therefore, an early diagnosis and, when necessary, cautious and monitored hormonal supplementation is essential.